Bracket Extension System

ABSTRACT

An orthodontic bracket extension system for orthodontic braces, the orthodontic bracket extension system including a plurality of bracket base extensions each having an aperture in which a corresponding one of a plurality of bracket base can be disposed to increase a bracket bonding surface area for greater securement of each of the plurality of brackets to each of a corresponding plurality of teeth.

This United States patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/504,325, filed Oct. 1, 2014, which claimsthe benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/886,461, filedOct. 3, 2013, each hereby incorporated by reference herein.

I. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

An orthodontic bracket extension system for orthodontic braces, theorthodontic bracket extension system including a plurality of bracketbase extensions each having an aperture in which a corresponding one ofa plurality of bracket base can be disposed to increase a bracketbonding surface area for greater securement of each of the plurality ofbrackets to each of a corresponding plurality of teeth.

II. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional orthodontic brackets have bracket bases which areconfigured to directly bond to the surface of a tooth. However,particular prescriptions for forces or pressures which transfer from anarchwire disposed within the bracket to the bracket can be sufficient tocause the bracket base to detach from the surface of the correspondingtooth.

Accordingly, a need exists for a system which can provide greateradherent forces between the bracket and the tooth surface to eliminateor reduce the occurrence of detachment of the bracket base from thesurface of the corresponding tooth.

III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A broad object of the invention can be to provide a bracket for anorthodontic appliance including one or more of: a bracket base havingopposed bracket base first and second surfaces joined at a bracket baseperiphery which delimits a bracket base surface area of the bracket basefirst and second surfaces, and a bracket body having a bracket bodylength disposed between bracket body first and second ends with thebracket body first end coupled to the bracket base second surface andthe bracket body second end having an archwire slot configured toreceive an archwire of the orthodontic appliance, and a bracket baseextension having opposed bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces joined at a bracket base extension periphery which delimits abracket base extension surface area of the bracket base extension firstand second surfaces, the bracket base extension having an aperturecommunicating between the bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces. The bracket base can be secured in the aperture of the bracketbase extension to locate the bracket base first surface in relation tothe bracket base extension first surface to allow the bracket base firstsurface and the bracket base extension first surface to fixedly mount toone of a plurality of teeth in a dental arch.

A broad object of a particular embodiment of the invention can be toprovide an orthodontic bracket extension system including one or moreof: a plurality of brackets of an orthodontic appliance, each of thebrackets including a bracket base having opposed bracket base first andsecond surfaces delimited by a bracket base periphery which defines abracket base surface area of the bracket base first and second surfaces,and a bracket body having a bracket body length disposed between bracketbody first and second ends, the bracket body first end coupled to thebracket base second surface, the bracket body second end terminating inan archwire slot configured to receive an archwire of the orthodonticappliance; each of the plurality of brackets interchangeable incombinations with a plurality of bracket base extensions, each of thebracket base extensions having opposed bracket base extension first andsecond surfaces delimited by a bracket base extension periphery whichdefines a bracket base extension surface area, and having an apertureelement communicating between the bracket base extension first andsecond surfaces. A selected one of the plurality of bracket bases can bereceived in or secured in the aperture of a selected one of theplurality of bracket base extensions to locate the bracket base firstsurface in relation to the bracket base extension first surfaceaffording a configuration of the bracket base first surface and thebracket base extension first surface configured fixedly mounted to oneof a plurality of teeth in a dental arch.

Another broad object of a particular embodiment of the invention can beto provide a method of producing an orthodontic bracket extensionsystem, the method including one or more of: obtaining a bracket for anorthodontic appliance, the bracket including a bracket base havingopposed bracket base first and second surfaces delimited by a bracketbase periphery which defines a bracket base surface area of the bracketbase first and second surfaces and a bracket body having a bracket bodylength disposed between bracket body first and second ends, the bracketbody first end coupled to the bracket base second surface, the bracketbody second end terminating in an archwire slot configured to receive anarchwire of the orthodontic appliance; obtaining a bracket baseextension having opposed bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces delimited by a bracket base extension periphery which defines abracket base extension surface area of the bracket base extension firstand second surfaces having an aperture communicating between the bracketbase extension first and second surfaces which can receive or secure thebracket base to locate the bracket base first surface in relation to thebracket base extension first surface, whereby the bracket base firstsurface associated with the bracket base extension first surface has aconfiguration which can be fixedly mounted to one of a plurality ofteeth in a dental arch.

Another broad object of a particular embodiment of the invention can beto provide a method of using an orthodontic bracket extension system,the method including one or more of: selecting a bracket for anorthodontic appliance, the bracket including a bracket base havingopposed bracket base first and second surfaces delimited by a bracketbase periphery which defines a bracket base surface area of the bracketbase first and second surfaces and a bracket body having a bracket bodylength disposed between bracket body first and second ends, the bracketbody first end coupled to the bracket base second surface, the bracketbody second end terminating in an archwire slot configured to receive anarchwire of the orthodontic appliance; selecting a bracket baseextension having opposed bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces delimited by a bracket base extension periphery which defines abracket base extension surface area of the bracket base extension firstand second surfaces having an aperture communicating between the bracketbase extension first and second surfaces which can receive or secure thebracket base to locate the bracket base first surface in relation to thebracket base extension first surface, whereby the bracket base firstsurface associated with the bracket base extension first surface has aconfiguration which can be fixedly mounted to one of a plurality ofteeth in a dental arch, disposing or securing the bracket base in theaperture of the bracket base extension; and fixedly mounting the bracketbase disposed or secured in the aperture of the bracket base to thetooth in the dental arch.

Naturally, further objects of the invention are disclosed throughoutother areas of the specification, drawings, and claims.

IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a particular embodiment of the orthodonticbracket extension system.

FIG. 2A is an illustration of a particular embodiment of the orthodonticbracket extension system mounted to lingual surfaces of a plurality ofteeth.

FIG. 2B is an illustration of a particular embodiment of the orthodonticbracket extension system mounted to facial surfaces of a plurality ofteeth.

FIG. 3A is an exploded view of a bracket having a bracket basedisposable in an aperture of a particular embodiment of a bracket baseextension.

FIG. 3B is perspective second surface elevation view of a particularembodiment of a bracket base disposed in the aperture of a bracket baseextension and secured by laser welding at the juncture of the bracketbase periphery and the aperture periphery of bracket base extension.

FIG. 3C is first surface elevation view of a particular embodiment of abracket base disposed in the aperture of a bracket base extension andsecured by laser welding at the juncture of the bracket base peripheryand the aperture periphery of bracket base extension.

FIG. 3D is first surface elevation view of a particular embodiment of abracket base disposed in the aperture of a bracket base extension thefirst surface of the bracket base and the bracket base extension eachincluding mechanical bond enhancement elements.

FIG. 3E is first surface elevation view of a particular embodiment of abracket base including chemical bond enhancement elements.

FIG. 3F is a lingual view of an incisor having a particular embodimentof the orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingualsurface of the incisor.

FIG. 3G is an incisal view of an incisor having a particular embodimentof the orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingualsurface of the incisor.

FIG. 3H is an is an exploded view of a bracket having a bracket basedisposable in an aperture of a particular embodiment of a bracket baseextension.

FIG. 3I is perspective view of the particular embodiment of the bracketbase extension shown in FIG. 3H mounted to the facial surface of anincisor.

FIG. 3J is an incisal cross section view as shown in FIG. 3F of aparticular embodiment of the orthodontic bracket extension system havingan aperture margin overlapping a bracket base margin to secure thebracket base in the aperture of the bracket base extension.

FIG. 3K is an incisal cross section view as shown in FIG. 3F of aparticular embodiment of the orthodontic bracket extension system havingan aperture margin overlapping a bracket base margin to secure thebracket base in the aperture of the bracket base extension.

FIG. 4A is a lingual view of a bicuspid (premolar) having a particularembodiment of the orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to thelingual surface of the bicuspid (premolar).

FIG. 4B is a distal view of a bicuspid (premolar) having a particularembodiment of the orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to thelingual surface of the bicuspid (premolar), whereby the bracket baseextension includes a partial band.

FIG. 5A is an incisal view of a molar having a particular embodiment ofthe orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingual surfaceof the molar, whereby the bracket base extension includes amesial-distal band, the bracket base coupled to the mesial-distal bandproximate a mesial-distal band lingual portion.

FIG. 5B is a mesiofacial view of a molar having a particular embodimentof the orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingualsurface of the molar, whereby the bracket base extension includes amesial-distal band, the bracket base coupled to the mesial-distal bandproximate a mesial-distal band lingual portion.

FIG. 5C is distoligual view of a molar having a particular embodiment ofthe orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingual surfaceof the molar, whereby the bracket base extension includes amesial-distal band, the bracket base coupled to the mesial-distal bandproximate a mesial-distal band lingual portion.

FIG. 6A is an incisal view of a molar having a particular embodiment ofthe orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingual surfaceof the molar, whereby the bracket base extension includes a coronalband, the bracket base coupled to the coronal band proximate a coronalband lingual portion.

FIG. 6B is mesiofacial view of a molar having a particular embodiment ofthe orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingual surfaceof the molar, whereby the bracket base extension includes a coronalband, the bracket base coupled to the coronal band proximate a coronalband lingual portion.

FIG. 6C is distolingual view of a molar having a particular embodimentof the orthodontic bracket extension system mounted to the lingualsurface of the molar, whereby the bracket base extension includes acoronal band, the bracket base coupled to the coronal band proximate acoronal band lingual portion.

V. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Now referring primarily to FIG. 1, embodiments of an orthodontic bracketextension system (1) can be utilized for orthodontic treatment performedby fixing an orthodontic appliance (2) to a plurality of teeth (3).Typically, but not necessarily, the orthodontic bracket extension system(1) includes one or more bracket base extensions (4), a plurality ofbrackets (5), an archwire (6), and a ligature (7). As shown in theillustrative examples of FIG. 3A, each bracket (5) can have a bracketbase (8) which can be received or secured in an aperture (9)communicating between opposed bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces (10)(11) of the bracket base extension (4). As to particularembodiments, the bracket base (8) can mounted to the surface of a tooth(3) and the bracket base extension (4) subsequently mounted to the tooth(3) with the bracket base (8) disposed in the aperture (9) of thebracket base extension (4), or the bracket base (8) secured within theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4) can be mounted asone-piece to the tooth (3). A plurality of brackets (5) correspondinglymounted to a plurality of teeth (3) can be intercoupled by the archwire(6), and the ligature (7) can be used to retain the archwire (6) inassociation with the plurality of brackets (5). The archwire (6) cangenerate external forces which can be transferred to the bracket base(8) and the bracket base extension (4) to urge the teeth (3) toward atargeted position or orientation over a period of time. Accordingly, theorthodontic appliance (2) can be utilized to correct malocclused teeth(3).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 2A, as to particular embodiments, theorthodontic bracket extension system (1) can include one or more bracketbase extensions (4) which can be mounted to the lingual surfaces (12) ofrespective teeth (3) around a dental arch (13), whereby the archwire (6)intercoupling the plurality of brackets (5) which in whole or in partcan be secured in in the aperture (9) of a corresponding one or morebracket base extensions (4) extends around the lingual surfaces (12) ofthe teeth (3).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 2B, as to particular embodiments, theorthodontic bracket extension system (1) can include one or more bracketbase extensions (4) which can be mounted to the facial surfaces (14) ofrespective teeth (3) around the dental arch (13), whereby the archwire(6) intercoupling the plurality of brackets (5) which in whole or inpart can be secured in the apertures (9) of a corresponding one morebracket base extensions (4) extends around the facial surfaces (14) ofthe teeth (3).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 3K, the orthodonticbracket extension system (1) can include a plurality of brackets (5) ofan orthodontic appliance (2) and a plurality of bracket base extensions(4). Each of the brackets (5) can include a bracket base (8) havingopposed bracket base first and second surfaces (15)(16) delimited by abracket base periphery (17) which defines a bracket base surface area(18) of the bracket base first and second surfaces (15)(16). Each of thebrackets (5) can further include a bracket body (19) having a bracketbody length (20) disposed between bracket body first and second ends(21)(22). The bracket body first end (21) can be coupled to the bracketbase second surface (16). The bracket body second end (22) terminates inan archwire slot (23) configured to receive an archwire (6) of theorthodontic appliance (2).

Again referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 3K, each of thebracket base extensions (4) can have opposed bracket base extensionfirst and second surfaces (10)(11) delimited by a bracket base extensionperiphery (24) which defines a bracket base extension surface area (25)of the bracket base extension first and second surfaces (10)(11). Thebracket base extension first surface (10) can be configured to fixedlymount to a corresponding one of the plurality of teeth (3) in the dentalarch (13).

Again referring primarily to FIG. 3A through FIG. 3F, each of thebracket base extensions (4) can include an aperture (9) whichcommunicates between opposed bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces (10)(11). The aperture (9) can be configured to receive orsecure the bracket base (8). The bracket base (8) can be disposed in theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4). As shown theillustrative example of FIG. 3D, the bracket base (8) can be disposed inthe aperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4) to dispose theaperture periphery (26) in substantially contiguous relation to thebracket base periphery (17) to afford a substantially continuouscombination of the bracket base extension first surface (10) and thebracket base first surface (15) configured to fixedly mount to acorresponding one of the plurality of teeth (3) in the dental arch (13).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 3A, 3J and 3K, embodiments of thebracket base extension (4) can further include an aperture margin (28)terminating at the aperture periphery (26) and embodiments of thebracket base (8) can further include a bracket base margin (29)terminating at the bracket base periphery (17). The aperture margin (28)can be configured to overlappingly engage the bracket base margin (29).As shown in the illustrative example of FIG. 3J, the aperture margin(28) of the bracket base extension first surface (10) can taper towardthe aperture periphery (26) and the bracket base margin (29) of thebracket base second surface (16) can taper toward the bracket baseperiphery (17). The pair of opposed tapered surfaces (30)(31) canmatingly engage when the aperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4)receives or secures the bracket base (8). As shown in the illustrativeexample of FIG. 3K, the aperture margin (28) and the bracket base margin(29) can each terminate in a corresponding aperture periphery (26) andbracket base periphery (17) which abut in substantially contiguousrelation and the bracket base extension (4) can further include a lip(32) projecting from the bracket base second surface (16) which extendsin overlapping engagement of the bracket base margin (29) of the bracketbase second surface (16). A numerous and wide variety of configurationsof the aperture margin (28) and the bracket base margin (29) can beutilized which overlappingly engage to maintain the bracket base (8) infixed or secured relation to the bracket base extension (4).

Now referring primarily to FIG. 3A, as to particular embodiments, thebracket base (8) can be secured within the aperture (9) of the bracketbase extension (4) to afford a one-piece combination of the bracket base(8) and the bracket base extension (4). As to particular embodiments, anamount of bonding adhesive (33) can be provided between the bondablesurfaces of the bracket base periphery (17) and the aperture periphery(26). The bonding adhesive (33) can be cured in accordance with themanufacturer's specifications to secure the bracket base (8) in fixedrelation to the bracket base extension (4). Any of a wide variety ofbonding adhesives (33) can be used to fixedly secure the bracket base(8) within aperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4). Illustrativeexamples of bonding adhesives (33) can include methacrylate estermonomers (CAS No: 109-16-0); polyacetal (CAS No: 9002-81-7); bisphenol Aepichlorhydrin resin (CAS No: 25068-38-6); ABSOLUTE Self-Adhesive ResinCement, which can be obtained from Centrix, Inc., 770 River Road,Shelton, Conn. 06484, USA; SCOTCHBOND Universal Adhesive, which can beobtained from 3M, 3M Center, St. Paul, Minn. 55144, USA; or the like, orcombinations thereof.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 3B and 3C, as to other particularembodiments, the bracket base (8) and the bracket base extension (4) canboth be formed from a weldable metal (34), such as carbon steel,high-strength low-alloy steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, orthe like, or combinations thereof. The bracket base (8) disposed in theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4) can be fixedly secured byany suitable method of welding which joins materials whether employed atthe first or second surfaces of the bracket base extension (4) andbracket base (8) (or both). Illustrative examples include: soldering,arc welding, gas welding, resistance welding, energy beam welding,sold-state welding, or any method of welding which joins materialswhether by coalescence or otherwise.

As an illustrative example, the bracket base (8) disposed in theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4) can be fixedly secured bylaser beam welding (as shown in the illustrative example of FIG. 3B)incorporating a laser (35) having a high power density (on the order of1 MW/cm²) which results in relatively small heat-affected zones andrelatively high heating and cooling rates. A spot size (37) of the laserbeam (36) can vary in a range of between about 0.2 millimeters to about1.0 millimeter; however, the invention need not be so limited, as thespot size (37) can be of lesser or greater size, depending upon theapplication. The depth of penetration of a laser beam (36) generated bythe laser (35) in the bracket base extension (4) can not only beproportional to the amount of power supplied but can also be dependentupon the location of the focal point of the laser beam (36), wherebypenetration can be enhanced when the focal point is slightly below thebracket base extension first or second surfaces (10)(11). As toparticular embodiments, a continuous or pulsed laser beam (36) can beused, depending upon the application.

As to particular embodiments, in which laser beam welding fixedlysecures the bracket base (8) in the aperture (9) of the bracket baseextension (4), the bracket base (8) can be positioned in the aperture(9) of the bracket base extension (4) and millisecond-long pulses of thelaser beam (36) can generate a weld (38) by moving the laser beam (36)to follow the juncture of the bracket base periphery (17) and theaperture periphery (26) to fixedly secure the bracket base (8) in theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4). As to particularembodiments, this can be achieved by manually moving the laser beam (36)along the juncture of the bracket base periphery (17) and the apertureperiphery (26). As to other particular embodiments, movement of thelaser beam (35) along the juncture of the bracket base periphery (17)and the aperture periphery (26) can be achieved with a mechanicalmovement apparatus (39), which can be guided in response to input from alaser scanner (40).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 3D and 3E, the bracket base extensionperiphery (24) and the aperture periphery (26) can define a bracket baseextension surface area (25) which inclusive of the area of the aperture(9) of the bracket base extension first surface (10) can besubstantially greater than the bracket base surface area (18) of thebracket base first surface (15). Accordingly, a bracket base extensionfirst surface (10) can afford a bonding surface area which can besubstantially greater than the bonding surface area of the bracket basefirst surface (15), whereby the relatively greater bracket baseextension surface area (25) can provide greater adherent forces betweenthe orthodontic bracket extension system (1) and the corresponding teeth(3).

As used herein, the term “substantially greater” means greater than fivepercent (5%). As an illustrative example, a bracket base extensionsurface area (25) is substantially greater than a bracket base surfacearea (18) when the bracket base extension surface area (23) is at least5% greater than the bracket base surface area (15). As an additionalillustrative example, a bracket base extension surface area (23) of atleast 10.5 mm² is substantially greater than a bracket base surface area(15) of 10 mm², as 10.5 mm² is at least 5% greater than 10 mm².

Again referring to FIGS. 3D and 3E, as to particular embodiments, thebracket base extension first surface (10) can further include bondenhancement elements (41) to increase adherent forces between thebracket base extension (4) and the respective lingual or facial toothsurfaces (12)(14). Bond enhancement elements (41) can include chemicalbond enhancement elements (42), mechanical bond enhancement elements(43), or a combination thereof. For example, suitable chemical bondenhancement elements (42) can include silane treatment such as describedin U.S. Pat. No. 4,948,366, incorporated by reference herein. Suitablemechanical bond enhancement elements (43) can include ridges, pegs,grooves, particles (such as regularly-shaped particles includingspheres, rods, or cones, or irregularly-shaped particles such as shardsof ceramic material).

In the use of conventional forces and pressures to move the teeth (3)toward targeted positions or orientations over a period of time, greateradherent forces between the orthodontic bracket extension system (1) andthe corresponding teeth (3) can eliminate or reduce the occurrence ofdetachment of one or more bracket base extensions (4) from thecorresponding one or more teeth (3). Additionally, greater adherentforces can allow an orthodontic practitioner to prescribe one or moretipping force moments, in-out force moments, or torquing force momentswhich can be substantially outside of the conventional range oforthodontic mechanics to move one or more teeth (3) in relation to theplurality of teeth (3) of a patient with an elimination or reduction inthe occurrence of detachment of one or more bracket base extensions (4)from the corresponding one or more teeth (3).

Embodiments of the bracket base extension (4) can have variousconfigurations adapted for increasing the bracket base extension surfacearea (25) of the bracket base extension first surface (10), which can bedirectly bonded to or engaged with the lingual or facial surface(12)(14) of a corresponding tooth (3). As to particular embodiments, thebracket base extension first surface (10) can be configured as agenerally planar bracket base extension first surface (10). As to otherparticular embodiments, the bracket base extension first surface (10)can be configured as an arcuate bracket base extension first surface(10), which can have a concave or convex contour configured to conformto a corresponding convex or concave contour of a mountable toothsurface (12)(14) of a corresponding tooth (3).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 3F and 3G, as to particularembodiments, the bracket base extension first surface (10) can have aconfiguration adapted for directly bonding to the lingual surface (12)of a tooth (3), for example an incisor (44), whereby the bracket baseextension first surface (10) can have a convex contour configured toconform to a corresponding concave contour of the lingual surface (12)of the incisor (44).

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 3H and 3G, the various bracket baseextensions (4), above described can be modified to excise a portion ofthe bracket base extension (4) to provide a partial bracket baseextension (4A), or the partial bracket base extension (4A) can be madein which the bracket base extension periphery (24) and the apertureperiphery (26) do not circumferentially enclose the bracket baseextension (4) or the aperture (9) but only define a bracket baseperiphery segment (24A) of the bracket base extension periphery (24) anda aperture periphery segment (26A) of the aperture periphery (26) whichdefine an open sided aperture (9A). As shown in the illustrativeexamples, of 3H and 3G, the partial bracket base extension (4A) includesan open sided aperture (9A) in which the bracket base (8) can bedisposed with a portion of the bracket base periphery (27) engaged withthe aperture periphery segment (26A). The bracket base (8) can befixedly secured in the open sided aperture (9A) as above described forthe bracket base (8) fixedly secured in the aperture (9) of otherembodiments of the bracket base extension (4). There can be asubstantial advantage to the partial bracket base extension (4A) becausethe bracket base extension periphery segment (24A) and the bracket baseaperture periphery segment (26A) can be disposed a distance from the gumline (56).

Now referring primarily FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, as to particularembodiments, the bracket base extension first surface (10) can have aconfiguration adapted for directly bonding to the lingual surface (12)of a tooth (3), for example a bicuspid (premolar) (45), whereby thebracket base extension first surface (10) can have a concave contourconfigured to conform to a corresponding convex contour of the lingualsurface (12) of the bicuspid (premolar) (45).

Again referring primarily to FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B, as to particularembodiments, the bracket base extension (4) can further include apartial band (46) adapted to extend, whether mesially or distally, aboutat least a portion of the tooth (3), for example the bicuspid (premolar)(45), to which the bracket base extension (4) affixes.

As to other particular embodiments, the bracket base extension (4) canfurther include a partial band (46) adapted to extend about at least aportion of the occlusal surface of the tooth (3) to which the bracketbase extension (4) affixes.

Now referring primarily to FIG. 5A through FIG. 5C, as to particularembodiments, the bracket base extension (4) can have a configurationadapted for directly bonding to both the lingual and facial surfaces(12)(14) of a tooth (3), for example a molar (47), whereby the bracketbase extension (4) can further include a mesial-distal band (48)disposed between mesial-distal band lingual and facial portions(49)(50). The mesial-distal band (48) can be adapted to extendmesially-distally about the molar (47). As to the particularembodiments, the bracket base (8) disposed in the aperture (9) bracketbase extension (4) can be coupled to the mesial-distal band (48)proximate the mesial-distal band lingual portion (49). As to otherparticular embodiments, the bracket base (8) disposed in the aperture(9) of the bracket base extension (4) can be coupled to themesial-distal band (48) proximate the mesial-distal band facial portion(50).

Now referring primarily FIG. 6A through FIG. 6C, as to particularembodiments, the bracket base extension (4) can have a configurationadapted for directly bonding to both the lingual and facial surfaces(12)(14) of a tooth (3), for example a molar (47), whereby the bracketbase extension (4) can further include a coronal band (51) having acoronal band medial portion (52) disposed between coronal band lingualand facial portions (53)(54). The coronal band (51) can be adapted toextend over a coronal portion (55) of the molar (47). As to theparticular embodiments, the bracket base extension (4) and correspondingbracket base (8) can be coupled to coronal band (51) proximate thecoronal band lingual portion (53). As to other particular embodiments,the bracket base extension (4) and corresponding bracket base (8) can becoupled to coronal band (51) proximate the coronal band facial portion(54).

Again referring primarily to FIGS. 1 and 2A and 2B, and FIGS. 3A through3I, as to particular embodiments the bracket base (8) or the bracketbase extension (4) can be fixedly mounted to one of the plurality ofteeth (3) by application of an amount of bonding adhesive (33), as abovedescribed, on the bracket base surface area (18) or the bracket baseextension surface area (25). The bracket base (8) or the bracket baseextension (4) can disposed on the tooth (3) in a predetermined positionor with a predetermined orientation, after which excess bonding adhesive(33) can be removed. As to particular embodiments, the bonding adhesive(33) can be cured, for example by using a high-intensity light, tosecure the bracket base (8) or the bracket base extension (4) to thesurface (12)(14) of the tooth (3). Subsequently, the bracket base (8) orbracket base extension (4) can be correspondingly fixedly mounted to thesurface (12)(14) of a tooth (3) disposing bracket base (8) in theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4), after which excessbonding adhesive (33) can be removed and the bonding adhesive (33)cured. Upon fixedly mounting the combination of the bracket base (8) andbracket base extension (4) on one of a plurality of teeth (3), as toparticular embodiments, the juncture between the aperture periphery (26)and the bracket base periphery (17) can, but need not necessarily, bejoined by an amount of additional bonding adhesive (33) or by a weld(38), or laser welding as above described.

Now referring primarily to FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, and 3B and 3C, as toparticular embodiments, the bracket base (8) can be disposed in theaperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4) and fixedly secured tothe bracket extension (4) to form a one-piece construct, as abovedescribed, in which the base extension first surface (10) and thebracket base first surface (15) form a substantially continuousone-piece surface. The bracket base (8) and bracket base extension (4)can then be fixedly mounted as one-piece to one of the plurality ofteeth (3) by application of an amount of bonding adhesive (33) to thecombined surfaces of the bracket base extension first surface (10) andthe bracket base first surface (15), as above described.

Regardless of the embodiment, upon fixed mounting of the bracket base(8) or the combination of the bracket base (8) and bracket baseextension (4) on each one of a plurality of teeth (3), the archwire (6)can be disposed within the archwire slot (23) of the bracket body (19).

A method of producing an orthodontic bracket extension system (1) caninclude: obtaining (whether by purchase or fabrication) a bracket (5)for an orthodontic appliance (2), the bracket (5) including a bracketbase (8) having opposed bracket base first and second surfaces (15)(16)delimited by a bracket base periphery (17) which defines a bracket basesurface area (18) of the bracket base first and second surfaces (15)(16)and a bracket body (19) having a bracket body length (20) disposedbetween bracket body first and second ends (21)(22), the bracket bodyfirst end (21) coupled to the bracket base second surface (16), thebracket body second end (22) terminating in an archwire slot (23)configured to receive an archwire (6) of the orthodontic appliance (2).The method can further include obtaining a bracket base extension(4)(whether by purchase of fabrication) having an aperture (9)communicating between opposed bracket base extension first and secondsurfaces (10)(11) delimited by a bracket base extension periphery (17)which defines a bracket base extension surface area (25) of the bracketbase extension first and second surfaces (10)(11). The aperture (9) inthe bracket base extension (4) being configured to receive or secure thebracket base (8) in the aperture (9) and having a bracket base extensionfirst surface (25) substantially greater than the bracket base surfacearea (15) of the bracket base first surface (15). The method can furtherinclude disposing the bracket base (8) within the aperture (9) of thebracket base extension (4).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include fixedlysecuring the bracket base (8) within the aperture (9) of the bracketbase extension (4) to provide the bracket base (8) and the bracket baseextension (4) as a one-piece construct which can be bonded to a tooth(3). As to particular embodiments, the bracket base (8) can be securedin the aperture (9) with a bonding adhesive (33). As to other particularembodiments, the method can further include forming the bracket base (8)and the bracket base extension (4) from a weldable metal (34) andfixedly securing the bracket base (8) in the aperture (9) of the bracketbase extension (4) by welding.

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include providingthe bracket base (8) or the bracket base extension (4) with a chemicalbond enhancement element (42). As to other particular embodiments, themethod can further include providing the bracket base extension (4) witha mechanical bond enhancement element (43).

As to particular embodiments, components of the orthodontic bracketextension system (1), including the bracket (5) and bracket baseextension (4), can each be entirely formed of the same material, oralternatively, can be formed from different materials. As to particularembodiments, components of the orthodontic bracket extension system (1)can be produced from any of a wide variety of materials which can becoupled to a tooth (3) and withstand forces or pressures transferredfrom the archwire (6) disposed within the bracket (5). By way ofillustration, the material can include or consist of: metal, wood,plastic, plastic-like material, acrylic, polyamide, polyester,polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride-based materials, silicone-basedmaterials, or the like, or combinations thereof.

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include configuringthe bracket base extension first surface (10) to directly bond to alingual surface (12) of one of the plurality of teeth (3). As to otherparticular embodiments, the method can further include configuring thebracket base extension first surface (10) to directly bond to a facialsurface (14) of one of the plurality of teeth (3).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include coupling apartial band (46) to the bracket base extension (4), the partial band(46) configured to extend about at least a portion of a tooth (3) towhich the bracket base extension (4) fixedly mounts.

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include coupling amesial-distal band (48) to the bracket base extension (4), themesial-distal band (48) configured to extend mesially-distally about atooth (3) to which the bracket base extension (4) fixedly mounts.

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include coupling acoronal band (51) to the bracket base extension (4), the coronal band(51) configured to extend over a coronal portion (55) of a tooth (3) towhich the bracket base extension (4) fixedly mounts.

As to particular embodiments, components of the orthodontic bracketextension system (1) can be produced from any of a wide variety ofprocesses depending upon the application, such as press molding,injection molding, fabrication, machining, printing, three-dimensionalprinting, or the like, or combinations thereof, as one piece orassembled from a plurality of pieces into an embodiment of a componentof the orthodontic bracket extension system (1) or provided as aplurality of pieces for assembly into an embodiment of a component ofthe orthodontic bracket extension system (1).

A method of using an orthodontic bracket base extension system (1) caninclude selecting a bracket (5) for an orthodontic appliance (2), thebracket (5) including a bracket base (8) having opposed bracket basefirst and second surfaces (15)(16) delimited by a bracket base periphery(17) which defines a bracket base surface area (18) of the bracket basefirst and second surfaces (15)(16) and a bracket body (19) having abracket body length (20) disposed between bracket body first and secondends (21)(22), the bracket body first end (21) coupled to the bracketbase second surface (16), the bracket body second end (22) terminatingin an archwire slot (23) configured to receive an archwire (6) of theorthodontic appliance (2).

The method can further include selecting a bracket base extension (4)having opposed bracket base extension first and second surfaces (10)(11)delimited by a bracket base extension periphery (24) which defines abracket base extension surface area (25) of the bracket base extensionfirst and second surfaces (10)(11) and including an aperture (9) toreceive or secure the bracket base (8), the bracket base extension firstsurface (10) configured to fixedly mount to a tooth (3) in a dental arch(10), whereby the bracket base extension surface area (25) of thebracket base extension first surface (10) is substantially greater thanthe bracket base surface area (15) of the bracket base first surface(15).

As to particular embodiments, the method can further include fixedlymounting the bracket base (8) to a tooth (3) in the dental arch (10)with an amount of bonding material (33). The method can further includefixedly mounting the bracket base extension (4) to the tooth (3) with anamount of bonding material (33) with the bracket base (8) disposed inthe aperture (9) of the bracket base extension (4). The method canfurther include intercoupling a plurality of brackets (5) mounted to aplurality of teeth (3) by the archwire (6), and further retaining retainthe archwire (6) in association with the plurality of brackets (5) witha ligature (7).

As to particular embodiments, in the alternative, the above methodincludes fixedly securing the bracket base (8) in the aperture (9) ofthe bracket base extension (4) forming a one-piece construct which thebracket base first surface (15) and the bracket base extension firstsurface (10) forms continuous or substantially continuous first surfaces(15)(10). The one-piece construct can be fixedly mounted to a tooth (3)in the dental arch (13) with an amount of bonding material (33). Themethod can further include intercoupling a plurality of brackets (5)mounted to a plurality of teeth (3) by the archwire (6), and furtherretaining the archwire (6) in association with the plurality of brackets(5) with a ligature (7).

As can be easily understood from the foregoing, the basic concepts ofthe present invention may be embodied in a variety of ways. Theinvention involves numerous and varied embodiments of a bracketextension system and methods for making and using such bracket extensionsystems, including the best mode.

As such, the particular embodiments or elements of the inventiondisclosed by the description or shown in the figures or tablesaccompanying this application are not intended to be limiting, butrather exemplary of the numerous and varied embodiments genericallyencompassed by the invention or equivalents encompassed with respect toany particular element thereof. In addition, the specific description ofa single embodiment or element of the invention may not explicitlydescribe all embodiments or elements possible; many alternatives areimplicitly disclosed by the description and figures.

It should be understood that each element of an apparatus or each stepof a method may be described by an apparatus term or method term. Suchterms can be substituted where desired to make explicit the implicitlybroad coverage to which this invention is entitled. As but one example,it should be understood that all steps of a method may be disclosed asan action, a means for taking that action, or as an element which causesthat action. Similarly, each element of an apparatus may be disclosed asthe physical element or the action which that physical elementfacilitates. As but one example, the disclosure of a “torque” should beunderstood to encompass disclosure of the act of “a torquing”—whetherexplicitly discussed or not—and, conversely, were there effectivelydisclosure of the act of “torquing”, such a disclosure should beunderstood to encompass disclosure of a “a torque” and even a “means fortorquing.” Such alternative terms for each element or step are to beunderstood to be explicitly included in the description.

In addition, as to each term used it should be understood that unlessits utilization in this application is inconsistent with suchinterpretation, common dictionary definitions should be understood toincluded in the description for each term as contained in the RandomHouse Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, second edition, each definitionhereby incorporated by reference.

All numeric values herein are assumed to be modified by the term“about”, whether or not explicitly indicated. For the purposes of thepresent invention, ranges may be expressed as from “about” oneparticular value to “about” another particular value. When such a rangeis expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular valueto the other particular value. The recitation of numerical ranges byendpoints includes all the numeric values subsumed within that range. Anumerical range of one to five includes for example the numeric values1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, and so forth. It will be furtherunderstood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant bothin relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the otherendpoint. When a value is expressed as an approximation by use of theantecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular valueforms another embodiment. The term “about” generally refers to a rangeof numeric values that one of skill in the art would consider equivalentto the recited numeric value or having the same function or result.Similarly, the antecedent “substantially” means largely, but not wholly,the same form, manner or degree and the particular element will have arange of configurations as a person of ordinary skill in the art wouldconsider as having the same function or result. When a particularelement is expressed as an approximation by use of the antecedent“substantially,” it will be understood that the particular element formsanother embodiment.

Moreover, for the purposes of the present invention, the term “a” or“an” entity refers to one or more of that entity unless otherwiselimited. As such, the terms “a” or “an”, “one or more” and “at leastone” can be used interchangeably herein.

Thus, the applicant(s) should be understood to claim at least: i) eachof the bracket extension systems herein disclosed and described, ii) therelated methods disclosed and described, iii) similar, equivalent, andeven implicit variations of each of these devices and methods, iv) thosealternative embodiments which accomplish each of the functions shown,disclosed, or described, v) those alternative designs and methods whichaccomplish each of the functions shown as are implicit to accomplishthat which is disclosed and described, vi) each feature, component, andstep shown as separate and independent inventions, vii) the applicationsenhanced by the various systems or components disclosed, viii) theresulting products produced by such systems or components, ix) methodsand apparatuses substantially as described hereinbefore and withreference to any of the accompanying examples, x) the variouscombinations and permutations of each of the previous elementsdisclosed.

The background section of this patent application provides a statementof the field of endeavor to which the invention pertains. This sectionmay also incorporate or contain paraphrasing of certain United Statespatents, patent applications, publications, or subject matter of theclaimed invention useful in relating information, problems, or concernsabout the state of technology to which the invention is drawn toward. Itis not intended that any United States patent, patent application,publication, statement or other information cited or incorporated hereinbe interpreted, construed or deemed to be admitted as prior art withrespect to the invention.

The claims set forth in this specification, if any, are herebyincorporated by reference as part of this description of the invention,and the applicant expressly reserves the right to use all of or aportion of such incorporated content of such claims as additionaldescription to support any of or all of the claims or any element orcomponent thereof, and the applicant further expressly reserves theright to move any portion of or all of the incorporated content of suchclaims or any element or component thereof from the description into theclaims or vice-versa as necessary to define the matter for whichprotection is sought by this application or by any subsequentapplication or continuation, division, or continuation-in-partapplication thereof, or to obtain any benefit of, reduction in feespursuant to, or to comply with the patent laws, rules, or regulations ofany country or treaty, and such content incorporated by reference shallsurvive during the entire pendency of this application including anysubsequent continuation, division, or continuation-in-part applicationthereof or any reissue or extension thereon.

Additionally, the claims set forth in this specification, if any, arefurther intended to describe the metes and bounds of a limited number ofthe preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to be construedas the broadest embodiment of the invention or a complete listing ofembodiments of the invention that may be claimed. The applicant does notwaive any right to develop further claims based upon the description setforth above as a part of any continuation, division, orcontinuation-in-part, or similar application.

1. An orthodontic bracket base extension, comprising: a bracket baseextension delimited by a bracket base extension periphery which definesa bracket base extension surface area of opposed bracket base extensionfirst and second surfaces, said bracket base extension having anaperture delimited by an aperture periphery communicating between saidopposed bracket base extension first and second surfaces, said apertureperiphery of said bracket base extension engageable with a bracket basedelimited by a base periphery which defines a bracket base surface areaof opposed bracket base first and second surfaces.
 2. The orthodonticbracket base extension of claim 1, further comprising an aperture marginterminating at said aperture periphery and a bracket base marginterminating at said bracket base periphery, said aperture marginoverlappingly engageable with said bracket base margin.
 3. Theorthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, said bracket basesecurable in said aperture of said bracket base extension by heatingsaid aperture periphery to flow into said base periphery.
 4. Theorthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, said bracket basesecurable in said aperture of said bracket base by a bonding adhesiveapplied to said aperture periphery or said base periphery.
 5. Theorthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, further comprising apartial band extending from said bracket base extension, said partialband configured to extend about a tooth.
 6. The orthodontic bracket baseextension of claim 1, wherein partial band comprises a mesial-distalband configured to extend mesially-distally about a tooth.
 7. Theorthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, wherein said partial bandcomprises a coronal band configured to extend over a coronal portion ofa tooth.
 8. The orthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, whereinsaid bracket base fixedly secured in said aperture of said bracket baseextension.
 9. The orthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, furthercomprising a chemical bond enhancement element coupled to said bracketbase or said bracket base extension.
 10. The orthodontic bracket baseextension of claim 1, further comprising a mechanical bond enhancementelement coupled to said bracket base or said bracket base extension. 11.The orthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1, wherein said apertureperiphery and said base extension periphery correspondingly define abase extension periphery segment and an aperture periphery segment whichdefine an open sided aperture, said bracket base disposable in said opensided aperture of said bracket base extension. 12-34. (canceled)
 35. Anorthodontic bracket base extension, comprising: a bracket base extensiondelimited by a base extension periphery and an aperture periphery whichdefine an open sided aperture communicating between opposed bracket baseextension first and second surfaces, said aperture periphery of saidbracket base extension engageable with a bracket base delimited by abracket base periphery which defines a bracket base surface area ofopposed bracket base first and second surfaces.
 36. The orthodonticbracket base extension of claim 35, further comprising an aperturemargin terminating at said aperture periphery and a bracket base marginterminating at said bracket base periphery, said aperture marginoverlappingly engageable with said bracket base margin.
 37. Theorthodontic bracket base extension of claim 35, wherein said bracketbase securable in said open sided aperture of said bracket baseextension.
 38. The orthodontic bracket base extension of claim 37,wherein said bracket base securable in said open sided aperture of saidbracket base extension by heating said aperture periphery to flow intosaid bracket base periphery.
 39. The orthodontic bracket base extensionof claim 37, wherein said bracket base securable in said open sidedaperture of said bracket base extension by a bonding adhesive applied tosaid aperture periphery or said bracket base periphery.
 40. Theorthodontic bracket base extension of claim 35, further comprising apartial band extending from said bracket base extension, said partialband configured to extend about a tooth.
 41. The orthodontic bracketbase extension of claim 40, wherein partial band comprises amesial-distal band configured to extend mesially-distally about a tooth.42. The orthodontic bracket base extension of claim 40, wherein saidpartial band comprises a coronal band configured to extend over acoronal portion of a tooth.
 43. The orthodontic bracket base extensionof claim 1, wherein said bracket base fixedly secures in said open sidedaperture of said bracket base extension.
 44. The orthodontic bracketbase extension of claim 1, further comprising a chemical bondenhancement element coupled to said bracket base or said bracket baseextension.
 45. The orthodontic bracket base extension of claim 1,further comprising a mechanical bond enhancement element coupled to saidbracket base or said bracket base extension.